The past, the present and the future of online road vehicle diagnosis from car and scan tool communication perspective

Abstract

In the luxury vehicle class, online internet connection has become a standard feature in the recent years. This process is likely to spread completely in all vehicle categories in the coming years. In the past, computer supported vehicle diagnostics started with On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) I standard in the late 1960's. This has been followed by OBD II in 1996, which allows a fully standardization regardless of vehicle manufacturer and models, based on a generic scan tool. Even its communication with the vehicle electronic architecture has been developed rapidly followed by the new technologies. This way of car analysis has been extended also for non-emission related functions. Online data collecting and analysis provides not only solutions in the car production and service but in its development process too. For example, it can help you to set realistic thresholds by defining an OBD strategy for many in-car systems and functions to avoid customer complaints, warranty costs and recalls afterwards. From predictive maintenance / repair perspective it is possible to monitor material properties, vibrations, damages potentials also in processes e.g. welding and soldering. The dynamic development of telecommunication and automotive technologies hand in hand will provide completely new ways for 'car to diagnostics back end' communication in the future without using a scan tool device and its physical in-vehicle interface.